Whether you have to rework your gym routine in the wake of the pandemic or just prefer the convenience of not having to drive and park at your local fitness center, a home gym can be an exercise-in-progress game changer. And while they may be more expensive than a monthly gym membership, they also tend to offer state-of-the-art equipment that’s well worth the initial investment.
The best all-in-one home gyms can provide a comprehensive workout with little to no setup needed. They can be found in all shapes and sizes—from small corner units that fit neatly into an apartment living room to full-fledged studios that take up a large section of a finished basement or garage. Choosing the right piece of equipment starts with asking yourself how often you work out and which exercises are most fun for you. But there are also more specific questions, like how much you can afford and how much space you have to dedicate to your gym.
As you sift through the myriad of options, here are our picks for the five best home gyms this winter:
REP Home Gym 2023 Update
Until recently, the idea of building a weight system at home was something that only fanatical fitness enthusiasts would undertake. But with the influx of new technology that’s transforming how we work out, at-home gyms have become just as common as home cinemas. It’s a trend that’s been reinforced by the popularity of online communities dedicated to helping people convert rooms in their homes into workout spaces.
The latest home gyms are designed with a range of different users in mind, from beginners to advanced trainers and those with specific muscle groups that need extra attention. Some even feature a built-in tablet to track heart rate and fitness metrics for more precise workouts.
For those looking for an all-in-one option, the REP FT-5000 is an impressively well-rounded model. It boasts a premium build quality with features like a combination stack lock for secure resistance training, an 11-gauge steel construction and butter-smooth transitions between height settings. It can support up to a 1,000-pound stack of weight plates and comes with detailed on-paper workout instructions to keep you motivated.
REP continues to push the design envelope in the home gym market with this bench, which is as versatile as it is affordable. It can be adjusted through six incline positions, a decline position and includes leg rollers for added comfort. Plus, it’s easy to transport thanks to a wheeled base and compact dimensions.
Resistance bands are a fan favorite, taking up minimal space and aiding a variety of exercises from bicep curls to side lateral raises. This one from Gymshark is a great choice for those on a tight budget, and it comes with our favorite on-paper workout instructions to inspire new exercises and help you nail your form. Plus, it’s backed by a lifetime warranty so you can feel confident using it on a regular basis.
Milena Estêvão is a YouTuber passionate about sharing her experiences (challenges, successes and motivations) in the fitness activities she is involved in.
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